We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Sonya Talamantes a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Sonya , thanks for joining us today. Earning a full time living from one’s creative career can be incredibly difficult. Have you been able to do so and if so, can you share some of the key parts of your journey and any important advice or lessons that might help creatives who haven’t been able to yet?

From the moment I set foot in the Arts center in college I knew that creativity would be my guiding star. My Bachelor’s degree in Theater Arts wasn’t just an academic achievement; it was the beginning of a lifelong passion for visual storytelling and artistic expression. Working behind the scenes of production taught me that even creativity takes drive, hard work and a community of people, thus setting the stage for the next chapter of my career.

After graduating, my path led me to the glittering streets of Hollywood, where I immersed myself in the world of professional makeup at a renowned makeup school, Joe Blasco. The experience was transformative, offering me the tools and techniques to enhance and redefine beauty. It wasn’t long before I was working as a freelance makeup artist, a role that allowed me to collaborate on commercial shoots, news segments,contribute to fashion shows, and create striking looks for magazines. Each project was an opportunity to push my creative boundaries and learn the nuances of working with diverse clients.

But the journey didn’t stop there. Driven by a desire to deepen my expertise, I took a significant step and enrolled in the Cosmetology program in San Diego as an apprentice. This period was instrumental in broadening my skill set. The rigorous training and hands-on experience refined my techniques and deepened my understanding of the science behind beauty.

Armed with this new knowledge, I began working as an assistant in a bustling salon. Here, I honed my skills in a real-world setting, learning the intricacies of salon management and client care. It was a dynamic environment that sharpened my abilities and taught me the importance of both creativity and customer service.

Over the next 16 years, I evolved from a passionate stylist into a seasoned professional. My dedication to my craft and my clients never wavered, and my reputation as a skilled stylist grew. The journey from freelance artist, New York Fashion week and celebrity stylist, to salon owner was paved with countless hours of hard work, perseverance, and a relentless drive to excel.

Today, as the proud owner of Haim Salon, I look back on my professional journey with a sense of fulfillment. Each chapter—from my theater days to my makeup school experience, from the glamorous shoots to the meticulous salon work—has contributed to the success I enjoy now. Haim Salon is not just a business; it is a reflection of my artistic vision and commitment to the beauty industry.

Becoming a salon owner is a testament to my growth and a celebration of my creative journey. It represents the culmination of years of learning, adapting, and refining my skills. I am deeply grateful for every experience that has shaped me and for the opportunity to share my passion with others. My career has been a vibrant tapestry of experiences, each thread adding depth to my life’s work.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am most proud of the positive, uplifting environment we’ve created for both our staff and clients. Our salon isn’t just a place for beauty services—it’s a space where people come to feel valued, inspired, and connected. Every detail of our work reflects this commitment.

– We’ve built a workplace where our team can thrive, fostering creativity, growth, and work-life balance. When our staff feels fulfilled, it reflects in the exceptional care they provide to clients.
– We prioritize continuous learning and development, ensuring our team stays on top of trends and techniques while feeling motivated and supported.
– We take pride in making every visit a positive, personalized experience—from consultation to completion. Our goal is to help every client leave feeling more confident, refreshed, and happy.
– Our relationships with clients go beyond appointments; we genuinely care about their well-being and aim to build long-lasting connections.
– We deliver high-quality services using the best products and staying ahead of industry trends.
– Our attention to detail extends to every touch point, making every moment in the salon a thoughtful, enjoyable experience.
*What We Want You to Know About Us:*
– Our salon is built around a culture of care—for both our team and our clients. When you come to us, you can trust that you’re in good hands with passionate professionals who genuinely love what they do.
– We Strive for Perfection, But Embrace Progress: Whether it’s trying new styles, keeping up with trends, or perfecting our services, we believe in evolving while keeping the client at the heart of everything.
– It’s About More Than Just Beauty: We understand that looking good on the outside starts with feeling good on the inside. We aim to create an environment that uplifts, restores, and empowers.
At the end of the day, our salon is not just a business—it’s a space where *everyone* feels seen, heard, and celebrated, and that’s what makes us proud.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative, for me, is witnessing the tangible impact of my work on people’s lives and self-perception. I’ve seen firsthand how art and creativity can transform not just appearances, but confidence and identity.
Each project I’ve worked on, whether it was a commercial shoot, a fashion show, or a salon client, has given me the chance to play a role in someone’s personal expression or professional image. The true reward comes in those moments when a client leaves the salon not just looking fabulous, but feeling empowered and rejuvenated. It’s in those smiles and renewed confidence that I find the deepest satisfaction.
Owning a salon now amplifies this reward. It’s not just about running a successful business; it’s about creating a space where creativity thrives, where clients and colleagues alike can see and feel the artistry we bring to life. It’s the culmination of years of dedication and passion, and it’s incredibly fulfilling to see how my journey has led to a place where I can inspire and uplift others daily.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/haim.salon
• Instagram: @sonyatalamantes @haimsalon
• Facebook: Haim Salon

Image Credits

Paige Lauren Powell,

IG @creative.paige